Lip and Chin Numbness After Chin Implants

Question

Should I be concerned about the numbness in my chin area and lower lip? It has been 3 weeks since my chin implant.

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello!  Thank you for your question!  Numbness after any surgical 
procedure is expected for several weeks to months following.  As the 
nerves to the area are traumatized and will then experience a temporary 
neuropraxia, a transient loss of nerve conduction.  This usually 
resolves over the next 6-12 weeks, but depending on the procedure 
performed, sometimes much longer.  Typically this should resolve by 1 
year.  As it goes past this date, the likelihood of the sensation 
returning is small.  However, it can take up to 2 years.  If no return 
from there, it is unlikely to return.  It should be discussed that 
persistent sensory changes may develop following any surgical 
procedure.   If it worsens or persists - your implant may need to be adjusted.  Followup closely with your surgeon.The usual signs of the nerves regenerating and neuropraxia
 resolving is itching, followed by a burning sensation and then 
occasional sharp, shock-like pains.  These will be normal to experience,
 and actually a promising sign.  Usually, normal sensation returns, but 
is is also possible to have decreased sensation or even increased 
sensation to the areas affected.  Re-educating nerves postoperatively is
 often helpful and will allow proper instruction for the affected 
sensory nerves - methods include using different textures to the 
affected areas when showering, bathing, applying lotion, etc.  If 
bothersome, there are some medications that may be helpful, including 
Neurontin for pain for hypersensitivity.  You can try various textures 
such as washcloths, loofahs, cotton sheets, etc.  Massaging the areas is
 also beneficial for the incision to make the finest scar possible.  The
 last place to regain the sensation will be directly adjacent to the 
incision/scar as the nerves will make its way from the periphery to this
 location.  If continual pain arises, evaluation is warranted.  After 
ruling out other causes, one rare explanation may be that a neuroma has 
developed and may require surgical excision.  This is very unlikely 
unless a large sensory nerve has been transected inadvertently during 
the procedure.  Hope that this helps!  Best wishes!

Thomas A. Lamperti, MD · Answer

Not every patient notes numbness to the chin or lip after chin implant placement, but some do. Even in the minority of patients who do experience this numbness they will find that it will usually improve anywhere from a few weeks up to a couple months after surgery.

	There are two major nerves that provide sensation to the lower lip and chin that exit the jaw bone just above the area where the chin implant is placed. Sometimes the nerves will be stretched a bit during the process of dissecting the implant pocket which can lead to the numbness. As long as the nerve wasn't cut, however, the feeling should come back.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

Although we prefer for the sensation to be intact, the numbness can be quite normal after chin augmentation especially if combined with neck numbness.
AT about this time, as the nerves recover, you should be experiencing alot of pins and needles sensations. These will be aggravated by tapping over you jaw just below the corners of your mouth.
It would be very unlikely that both nerves were damaged on both sides of your chin.
Discuss your concerns with your surgeon, so that he//she can counsel and supervise your recovery.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Numbness of the chin after an implant is a common temporary complaint.  It usually resolves in a few weeks but may take longer.  There are two large nerves that are encounted during the operation and they are protected from injury.  Commonly, the retraction and stretching causes some post-up chin anesthesia.

James Hoyt, MD (retired) · Answer

Numbness in the lips and chin area is a common side effect after chin implant surgery, particularly in the immediate post-operative period. This numbness occurs due to temporary disruption or stretching of nerves during the surgical procedure. Here are some key points to consider regarding numbness after chin implant surgery:
1.	Nerve Trauma: During chin implant surgery, the plastic surgeon may need to manipulate tissues and bones around the chin area. This manipulation can sometimes result in temporary trauma to sensory nerves, leading to numbness or altered sensation in the chin, lower lip, and surrounding areas.
2.	Swelling: Swelling is a natural response to surgery and can contribute to sensations of numbness or tingling in the chin and lip areas. Swelling can compress nerves and temporarily affect sensation until it subsides.
3.	Recovery Time: In most cases, numbness and altered sensation in the lips and chin gradually improve over time as the nerves heal and the swelling resolves. It's not uncommon for it to take several weeks to months for sensation to return fully to normal.
4.	Follow-up Care: It's essential to follow your plastic surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully, including any recommendations for managing swelling and promoting healing. Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled so your plastic surgeon can monitor your progress and address any concerns you may have.
5.	Rare Complications: While rare, there is a risk of more persistent or permanent nerve damage after chin implant surgery. If you experience persistent numbness, loss of sensation, or other concerning symptoms, it's crucial to contact your plastic surgeon promptly for evaluation.
In most cases, numbness after chin implant surgery is temporary and improves as the body heals. However, if you have any concerns or if the numbness persists or worsens over time, it's important to discuss them with your plastic surgeon for further assessment and guidance.

Lip and Chin Numbness After Chin Implants

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Answer: Numbness after chin implant

Answer: Lip and Chin Numbness After Chin Implants

Answer: Lip and Chin Numbness After Chin Implants

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Lip and Chin Numbness After Chin Implants

Answers (5)

Answer: Numbness after chin implant

Answer: Numbness after chin implant

Answer: Lip and Chin Numbness After Chin Implants

Answer: Lip and Chin Numbness After Chin Implants

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Everything you need to know about Chin Implant

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